CINCINNATI -- Hundreds of people braved the cold Monday to march in honor of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
Marchers started at the Freedom Center, continuing to Fountain Square and then to Music Hall.
Sierra Blair, a student at Northern Kentucky University, said it’s important for everybody to remember what King did and how it still impacts the United States in 2020.
“I just want everyone to know that we need to love each other more, help each other more,” Blair said. “Just come closer together. There is just so much in the world that can tear us apart. I think we all just need to come together and help out, pay it forward.”
The MLK march paid tribute to King’s legacy while continuing the fight for greater social tolerance. Marcher Cameron Johnson said education is important at a time when understanding is lacking.
“I think we are going backwards, but there is always room to improve. I think we’re going there right now, in the near future,” Johnson said.
Brandon Shaw said he brought his children to the march to show them how far the movement has come.
“My kids grow up in a world that is very different than when my parents came,” Shaw said. “And remembering that we fought for this and we still have a lot more work to do.”
Shaw is teaching his family that MLK Day is more than just a day off of school, and that everyone has a part to play in his work.
“This is a day about service and remembering Dr. Martin Luther King and what he fought for. Just helping them remember they’re a part of the legacy, as well as continuing to grow and never forget where they’re from,” Shaw said.
